World Philosophy Day marked in Kazakhstan

On 16 November 2018, the UNESCO Cluster Office in Almaty in cooperation with the Kazakhstan National Federation of UNESCO Clubs organized a youth workshop dedicated to the celebration of the World Philosophy Day in the Kazakh National Academy of Arts, with a live broadcast to the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.

Aiming at promoting the international culture of philosophical discussion, UNESCO introduced the Philosophy Day in 2005, which defines the presence of philosophy in addressing contemporary global issues. In addition, UNESCO also noted the significance of philosophy for youth, claiming that the discipline of philosophy is the basis for promoting world peace and equality.

This year’s World Philosophy Day was celebrated on 15 November 2018, with special events that took place from 14 to 17 November at UNESCO field offices.

The programme conicided with the 70th anniversary for the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In this context, events marking the World Philosophy Day highlighted the need for new philosophy practices in today’s world, encourage dialogue on the connections with human rights and explore new ways to increase accessibility of philosophical teaching and learning.

Around 100 active young members of Kazakh UNESCO Clubs participated in the celebration in Almaty to encourage critical and independent thought and to promote mutual understanding, tolerance and peace through the philosophical approach.

During the event young boys and girls become more familiaer with philosophical thinking through the traditional Kazakh poetic debates – ‘Aytis’, arts and poetry performance on philosophy and human rights. The participants were able to exchange views and opinions in open discussions and brainstorming.

By celebrating the World Philosophy Day this year, the UNESCO Almaty Cluster Office emphasized the significant value of philosophy for the development process of human rights, delivered the message of critical thinking for youth, and highlighted the importance of promoting world peace and tolerance.